Energy Performance Certificate, EPC, Landlord Advice, Letting, Property

For the owners, there are endless responsibilities to follow. All owners who respect themselves want to provide safe and comfortable housing for their tenants, but it can be difficult to keep abreast of changes in developments.
One of those responsibilities that is vital to fulfill is to obtain an EPC for your property. The EPC is a certificate to guarantee the sufficiency of the energy performance of a building and is required for all properties that are put on the market to sell or rent.
We know that it can be complicated to navigate complex requirements and laws. That is why we have gathered this information about the obligations of the EPC owner.
So, without further ado, here is everything you need to know about EPC for owners, all in one place.
What is an energy performance certificate?
Simply put, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) tells you how energy efficient a property is. Factors such as carbon dioxide emissions and heating costs are taken into account to grant the property an EPC rating.

An EPC is required each time a property is put up for sale or rent.
Introduced in 2008 as part of the Home Information Packages (HIP), the EPC aims to provide buyers and potential tenants with clearer information about the energy efficiency of their building.
In addition to qualifying the building for its current efficiency, the EPC also offers suggestions for improving energy use and will provide an expected rating for when they are implemented.
Energy Efficiency Rating
The energy efficiency of your property receives a rating between A and G, being A very efficient and G inefficient. An older property without double glazing or adequate insulation is more likely to obtain a lower rating than a new construction.
The property will also receive a number between 1-100. The higher the number, the more efficient the building is and the energy bills are more profitable.
The EPC will also provide estimated energy costs for heating, lighting and water bills. In addition to advice on how to improve the energy efficiency of your property. From the installation of better quality wall insulation to something as simple as switching to energy saving light bulbs, there are many ways to make your property greener.
What is the minimum energy efficiency standard for homeowners?
As of April 2018, owners of the rented private sector need a minimum E rating for their rental properties. Failure to comply with this standard could result in fines, so it should be avoided at all costs!
Tenants have the right to make improvements in the energy efficiency of the property, with the permission of the owner.
As of April 2020, these regulations will also apply to all existing insured holdings that exist.
What properties do you need an EPC?
Every domestic and commercial building in England and Wales must have an EPC. If you are renting a property, you must have requested the EPC before the property goes on the market.
The only types of buildings that are exempt include some listed buildings and residential buildings or rented vacation homes that are in use for less than four months a year. A room rented by a residential owner is also released.
The EPC must be shown to potential tenants and a copy must be provided at no cost. Make sure you don't get caught!

How long is the Energy Performance Certificate valid?
An EPC is valid for 10 years from when it is completed. If the property has an EPC of an existing lease, it is fine as long as it is within this period.
How to get an EPC
As a responsible owner, you should only use an accredited Domestic Energy Advisor when you purchase the EPC for your property.
For a list of approved EPC organizations in the United Kingdom, see the energy performance certificate record.
How much does the Energy Performance Certificate cost?
An important question for the owners! Unfortunately, there is currently no flat rate for EPC, however, prices generally start at £ 35. Factors such as the size of the property, the type of property, how many rooms it has and its location are taken into account.
Recent changes to the EPC
As of April 1, 2019, the "no cost to the owner" exemption will no longer apply and owners must pay up to £ 3,500 in works to increase their property rating up to an E. If the costs exceed this figure, the owners will make them allow to register for a "high cost" exemption in the PRS Exemption Registry provided they provide meaningful evidence. For more info click here